CHAPTER Getting Help • Thank you for purchasing our computer! • Using the Gateway Web site • Using Help and Support • Using online help • Finding your model and serial number • Microsoft Certificate of Authenticity...
Thanks again, from all of us at Gateway. Using the Gateway Web site Gateway’s online support is available 24 hours per day, 7 days per week and provides the most current drivers, product specifications, tutorials, and personalized information about your...
Your computer includes Help and Support, an easily accessible collection of help information, troubleshooters, and automated support. Use Help and Support to answer questions about Windows and to help you quickly discover and use the many features of your Gateway computer. To start Help and Support: •...
The labels shown in this section are for informational purposes only. Label information varies by model, features ordered, and location. The label on the side of your computer case includes your computer serial number. Gateway Customer Care will need this information if you call for assistance.
CHAPTER Setting Up and Getting Started • Front • Back • Working safely and comfortably • Preparing power connections • Connecting to a broadband modem or network • Connecting a dial-up modem • Starting your computer • Turning off your computer •...
CHAPTER 2: Setting Up and Getting Started Front Your computer includes the following components (your computer may differ from the computer shown below). DVD/CD drive Diskette drive (optional) Power button/power indica Hard drive activity indicator Headphone jack USB ports Microphone jack Component Icon Description...
Component Icon Description Microphone jack Plug a microphone into this jack. This jack is color-coded red or pink. Headphone jack Plug powered, analog front speakers, an external amplifier, or headphones into this jack. This jack is color-coded green. Back Your computer includes the following components (your computer may differ from the computer shown below).
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CHAPTER 2: Setting Up and Getting Started Component Icon Description Voltage switch Before turning on your computer, make sure that this switch is in the correct position for the correct power available. The switch is preset at the factory with the correct voltage for your area. In the United States, the utility power is supplied at a nominal 115 volts at 60 Hz.
Component Icon Description Video port Plug a monitor into this port. Serial port Plug a serial device into this port. For more information, see “Installing a printer, scanner, or other device” on page ® PS/2 mouse port Plug a Personal System/2 (PS/2) keyboard into this port.
CHAPTER 2: Setting Up and Getting Started Reducing eye strain Sunlight or bright indoor lighting should not reflect on the monitor screen or shine directly into your eyes. • Position the computer desk and screen so you can avoid glare on your screen and light shining directly into your eyes.
Preparing power connections Protecting from power source problems Warning High voltages can enter your computer through both the power cord and the modem connection. Protect your computer by using a surge protector. If you have a telephone modem, use a surge protector that has a modem jack. If you have a cable modem, use a surge protector that has an antenna/cable TV jack.
CHAPTER 2: Setting Up and Getting Started Connecting a dial-up modem Warning To reduce the risk of fire, use only No. 26 AWG or larger telecommunications line cord. Your computer may have a 56K modem add-in card that you can use with a standard telephone line to connect to the Internet or fax documents.
Turning off your computer Warning When you turn off your computer, certain components in the power supply and system board remain energized. In order to remove all electrical power from your computer, unplug the power cord and modem cable from the wall outlets. We recommend disconnecting the power cord and modem cable when your computer will not be used for long periods.
CHAPTER 2: Setting Up and Getting Started Using the keyboard Premium multimedia keyboard features The keyboard has several different types of keys and buttons. Your keyboard also has status indicators that show which keyboard feature is active. Indicators Function keys Internet Audio playback buttons buttons...
Feature Icon Description Directional keys Press these keys to move the cursor up, down, right, or left. Numeric keypad Press these keys to type numbers when the numeric keypad (N ) is turned on. Elite multimedia keyboard features The keyboard has several different types of keys and buttons. Your keyboard also has status indicators that show which keyboard feature is active.
CHAPTER 2: Setting Up and Getting Started Feature Icon Description Application key Press this key to access shortcut menus and help assistants in Windows. Editing buttons Press these buttons to copy, cut, and paste. Navigation keys Press these keys to move the cursor to the beginning of a line, to the end of a line, up the page, down the page, to the beginning of a document, or to the end of a document.
You can use the scroll wheel on the mouse to move through a document. This feature is not available in all programs. To... Do this... Move the Move the mouse around on the pointer on the mouse pad. If you run out of...
CHAPTER 2: Setting Up and Getting Started To adjust the volume from Windows: Click ) on the taskbar. The volume control slider opens. Volume Click and drag the slider up to increase volume and down to decrease volume. To mute the volume, click (Mute).
Click Hardware and Sound, Sound, the Playback tab, then click Configure. -OR- If your computer has the Realtek Sound Effect Manager installed, double-click the Sound Effect Manager icon on the taskbar. The Realtek dialog box opens. Follow the on-screen instructions to configure the audio jacks for your speaker setup.
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CHAPTER 2: Setting Up and Getting Started...
CHAPTER 3: Using Windows Vista Using the Windows desktop After your computer starts, the first screen you see is the Windows desktop. The desktop is like the top of a real desk. Think of the desktop as your personalized work space where you open programs and perform other tasks.
Using the Start menu Help For more information about the Windows Start menu, click Start, then click Help and Support. Type Windows Start menu in the Search Help box, then press E NTER You can start programs, open files, customize your system, get help, search for files and folders, and more using the Start menu.
CHAPTER 3: Using Windows Vista Adding icons to the desktop Help For more information about the desktop icons, click Start, then click Help and Support. Type desktop icons in the Search Help box, then press E NTER You may want to add an icon (shortcut) to the desktop for a program that you use frequently. To add icons to the desktop: Shortcut Start...
Window item Description Clicking the minimize button reduces the active window to a button on the taskbar. Clicking the program button in the taskbar opens the window again. Clicking the maximize button expands the active window to fit the entire computer display. Clicking the maximize button again restores the window to its former size.
CHAPTER 3: Using Windows Vista Creating folders Folders are much like the folders in a file cabinet. They can contain files and other folders. Files are much like paper documents—letters, spreadsheets, and pictures—that you keep on your computer. In fact, all information on a computer is stored in files. Folders Files To create a folder:...
With the pointer inside the destination folder, right-click. Click Paste. A copy of the file or folder appears in the new location. Help For more information about copying files and folders or moving files or folders, click Start, then click Help and Support. Type copying files and folders or moving files...
CHAPTER 3: Using Windows Vista To empty the Recycle Bin: Caution Emptying the Recycle Bin permanently erases any files or folders in the bin. These files cannot be restored. Double-click the Recycle Bin icon on the desktop. The Recycle Bin window opens. Click Empty the Recycle Bin.
Using advanced search options Search can find files meeting more criteria than file name. You can narrow your search by selecting the search options that you want. You can search by the: • Name or part of a name •...
CHAPTER 3: Using Windows Vista Creating a new document To create a new document: Click (Start), All Programs, Accessories, then click WordPad. Microsoft WordPad starts and a blank document opens. Begin composing your document. Use the menus and toolbar buttons at the top of the window to format the document.
Click Folders to open the Folders list, then click the folder you want to open. Double-click the document file name. The document opens. Help For more information about opening documents, click Start, then click Help and Support. Type opening files in the Search Help box, then press E...
CHAPTER 3: Using Windows Vista Shortcuts Help For more information about Windows keyboard shortcuts, click Start, then click Help and Support. Type Windows keyboard shortcuts in the Search Help box, then press E NTER The following table shows a few shortcuts that you can use in Windows and almost all programs that run in Windows.
To determine if you have an Ethernet jack on your computer, see your computer’s hardware reference. If you do not have an Ethernet jack on your computer and would like to purchase an Ethernet card, visit the Accessory Store at www.gateway.com. If you want to access the Internet you need: •...
Setting up an Internet account Before you can view the information on the World Wide Web, you need to set up an Internet account with an Internet service provider (ISP). To set up an ISP service or to transfer an existing account to this computer, contact the ISP directly.
To go to a different Web site, type the address (called a URL for “Universal Resource Locator”) in the browser address bar (for example www.gateway.com), then click GO on the browser address bar.
Downloading files Caution To protect your computer against viruses, make sure that you scan the files you download. For more information, see “Protecting your computer from viruses” on page Downloading is the process of transferring files from a computer on the Internet to your computer.
CHAPTER 4: Using the Internet Sending e-mail To send e-mail using Windows Mail: Connect to your Internet service provider. Click (Start), then click E-mail. Your default e-mail program opens. Click Create Mail. Type the e-mail address of the recipient you want to send e-mail to in the box.
CHAPTER 5: Sending and Receiving Faxes Using Windows Fax and Scan Windows Fax and Scan comes pre-installed with Windows Vista Business, Enterprise, or Ultimate Editions. If your computer has a built-in fax modem, Windows automatically detects it during the setup process. You can connect your computer to one local fax modem, although you can connect to multiple fax servers or devices on a network.
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Type the name of the fax modem in the dialog box, then click Next. The Choose how to receive faxes screen opens. Click how you want to receive faxes, then click Unblock when the The Security Alert window opens. The New Fax window opens.
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CHAPTER 5: Sending and Receiving Faxes To enter optional dialing rule information, click Dialing Rule and select a rule from the menu. If you have not set up a dialing rule, select New Rule from the menu. The Location Information dialog box opens. Type your location information, then click OK.
Setting up your cover page template You can create your own cover page template that you can use in place of the cover page templates that Microsoft Fax provides for you. To create a cover page template, you use the Fax Cover Page Editor.
CHAPTER 5: Sending and Receiving Faxes Canceling a fax You can cancel a fax that you have set up to send at a time in the future. To cancel a fax that has not been sent: Click (Start), All Programs, then click Windows Fax and Scan. Windows Fax and Scan opens.
CHAPTER Using Your Hardware • Using the diskette drive • Using the CD or DVD drive • Using the memory card reader • Configuring the audio jacks • Connecting a projector or monitor • Connecting a television • Connecting a video camera...
You can use your computer to enjoy a wide variety of multimedia features. Identifying drive types Your Gateway computer may contain one of the following drive types. Look on the front of the drive for one or more of the following logos: If your drive has this logo...
If your drive has this logo... This is your drive type... Use your drive for... DVD+RW Installing programs, playing audio CDs, playing DVDs, accessing data, creating CDs, and recording video and data to DVD+R or DVD+RW discs. DVD R/RW drive...
CHAPTER 6: Using Your Hardware Using the memory card reader You can use the optional memory card reader to transfer pictures from a digital camera to your computer. You can also use the memory card reader to transfer data between your computer and a device that uses memory cards, such as a PDA, MP3 player, or cellular telephone.
To remove a memory card: Important Do not use the remove hardware icon in the taskbar to remove the memory card. • Wait for the memory card reader access indicator to stop blinking, then pull the memory card out of the slot.
CHAPTER 6: Using Your Hardware Click Display Settings. The Display Settings window opens. Right-click the second monitor icon (labeled 2), then click Attached. Click Apply. Adjust properties such as Resolution or Colors if necessary. Click OK. Connecting a television The Video out or S-Video out jack on your computer lets you view your display on a television screen using a standard RCA or S-Video cable.
Modifying television settings To modify television settings: Right-click any empty space on the desktop, then click Presonalize. The Personalization menu opens. Click Display Settings. The Display Settings window opens. Open the menu in the center of the window and click on the television.
CHAPTER Using Your Software • Playing music and movies • Creating audio files and music libraries • Creating music CDs and video DVDs • Creating and copying data discs • Using Windows Media Center...
CHAPTER 7: Using Your Software Playing music and movies Playing audio and video files Windows Media Player can play several types of audio and video files, including WAV, MIDI, MP3, AU, AVI, and MPEG formats. To play a file using Windows Media Player: Shortcut Start Computer...
To watch a DVD you must have a DVD-compatible drive in your computer. If you do not have a DVD-compatible drive and would like to add an internal or external drive, visit the Accessory Store at www.gateway.com. Help For more information about playing optical discs, click Start, then click Help and Support.
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CHAPTER 7: Using Your Software If a dialog box opens and asks you what you want the computer to do with the disc, click Play. Windows Media Player opens and begins playing the disc. If Windows Media Player does not open automatically, click (Start), All Programs, then click Windows Media Player.
Click one of the following to control playback: Repeat Rewind Fast forward Volume Shuffle Stop Pause/Play Mute • Shuffle randomizes the playback order of the files in the playlist. • Repeat starts playing the list over again after it reaches the end.
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CHAPTER 7: Using Your Software When you finish recording, click Stop Recording. The Save As dialog box opens. Type a name for the recording, specify the file type and location where you want to save the recording, then click Save. The recording is saved. Creating WMA music files Important Some music CDs have copy protection software.
Building a music library Use Windows Media Player to build a music library. You can organize your music tracks (individual MP3 or WMA audio files) by categories, find a track quickly by sorting, and add information to a music file.
CHAPTER 7: Using Your Software Creating music CDs and video DVDs Creating a music CD Important We recommend that you do not use your computer for other tasks while creating CDs or DVDs. If you record copyrighted material on a CD or DVD, you need permission from the copyright owner.
Creating a video DVD Creating a video DVD using Windows DVD Maker If your computer has Windows Vista Home Premium or Windows Vista Ultimate Edition, you can create video DVDs using Windows DVD Maker. To create a video DVD using Windows DVD Maker:...
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CHAPTER 7: Using Your Software Click Add items. The Add Items to DVD dialog box opens. Find and select the videos you want to add to the video DVD, then click Add. The videos are added to the video list, and a graphic in the lower left corner of the window shows you how much disc capacity will be used.
Click any of the following options to customize your video disc: • Preview shows how your DVD’s opening menu will look using the current settings. • Menu text changes the disc title, font, and button names. • Customize menu changes the menu fonts, background and foreground videos, audio track, and button styles.
CHAPTER 7: Using Your Software Using Windows Media Center If your computer has Windows Vista Home Premium or Windows Vista Ultimate Edition, you can use Windows Media Center to watch TV, videos, and movies, listen to music, and view photos. Media Center is a simplified, streamlined interface that is ideally suited for playing and managing media files.
Use the remote control navigation buttons to select a Media Center menu option, then press OK. • TV + Movies lets you play TV programs you have recorded, play a DVD or Blu-ray movie, or set up your TV tuner card (if installed).
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CHAPTER 7: Using Your Software Button(s) Functions Shortcut buttons Give you direct access to Media Center features. Start button Opens the Media Center’s main menu. Audio/Video (A/V) control Lets you control volume levels, volume mute, channel selections, and buttons the movie menu. Numeric keypad/data entry Lets you enter numbers and characters from the remote control.
CHAPTER 8: Customizing Windows Changing screen settings If you are using a monitor, you can adjust the screen settings for brightness, contrast, and horizontal and vertical image position using the controls on the front or side of your monitor. For more information about these adjustments, see your monitor’s user guide. Adjusting the color depth and screen area are two of the most basic display settings you may need to change.
Changing the appearance of windows and backgrounds You can change the appearance of Windows desktop items, such as the colors of windows and dialog boxes and the color and design of the desktop background. To change Window colors and effects:...
CHAPTER 8: Customizing Windows Click the Picture Location list, then click the location where you want to look for background images. If the location you want is not in the list, click Browse and locate the drive and folder. Click the picture or color you want to use for the background, then click OK. Selecting a screen saver Caution If you are using a monitor (not a flat-panel display), an image may get burned in...
Changing gadgets Gadgets are constantly running mini-programs that are visible on your Windows desktop. They can be moved, removed, resized, and configured according to your preference. Although you can position them anywhere on your desktop, gadgets are usually visible on the right edge of your screen in the Sidebar.
CHAPTER 8: Customizing Windows Using a gadget’s control panel Some gadgets have built-in control panels that you can use to control their behavior. To use a gadget’s control panel: In the Sidebar, hold the mouse pointer over the gadget. The gadget’s built-in control panel appears on the gadget.
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You can use the second monitor or projector as a duplicate of the primary display, or as an extension to roughly double the size of your Windows desktop. Use the additional desktop space to accommodate additional windows. To use a projector or additional monitor: Turn off your computer.
CHAPTER 8: Customizing Windows Changing system sounds You can change the sounds that play for system events, such as Windows startup and shut down, logging on and logging off, window maximizing and minimizing, and error messages. To change system sounds: Click (Start), Control Panel, Hardware and Sound, then under Sound, click Change system sounds.
Changing mouse settings Help For more information about mouse settings, click Start, then click Help and Support. Type mouse settings in the Search Help box, then press E NTER You can adjust the double-click speed, pointer speed, left-hand or right-hand configuration, and other mouse settings.
CHAPTER 8: Customizing Windows Adding and modifying user accounts You can create and customize a user account for each person who uses your computer. You can also change between user accounts without turning off your computer. User account tips • If you want to create an account for someone, but you do not want that user to have full access to your computer, be sure to make that account limited.
• Switch User opens the account selection screen but does not log off the current user, and any programs that were running for the previous user continue to run. • Log Off logs off the current user, then opens the account selection screen.
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CHAPTER 8: Customizing Windows To change advanced power settings, click Change plan settings, Change advanced power settings. Change the settings you want, then click OK. You can change: • Power-down times for your hard drive, wireless network adapter, USB devices, and processor •...
Changing accessibility settings Your computer can be a powerful tool, but it may be less useful to you if items on the screen are difficult to see, or if the mouse is difficult to control. Windows has several tools that help you use it more easily.
CHAPTER 8: Customizing Windows Using voice recognition You can attach a microphone to your computer and configure Windows to create typed text from your voice. To set up voice recognition: Click (Start), Control Panel, Ease of Access, then click Speech Recognition Options. The Speech Recognition Options window opens.
CHAPTER Networking Your Computer • Introduction to Networking • Wired Ethernet networking • Wireless Ethernet networking • Setting up your network connection • Testing your network • Adding a printer to your network • Sharing resources • Using the network...
CHAPTER 9: Networking Your Computer Introduction to Networking Making sure your broadband connection works Important If you do not have a broadband connection already installed, make the necessary arrangements with your ISP. Be sure to find out how soon after the installation the line will be activated.
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To add the ability to access a wireless Ethernet network to your wired Ethernet network, connect an access point to the router or use a router that has a built-in access point. Attached to the router are all of your computers or Ethernet-ready devices. Also connected to the router is a cable or DSL modem that provides access to the Internet.
Ethernet cards and drivers on the computers that do not have Ethernet already installed. To order wired or wireless Ethernet PCI or PC cards, visit the Accessories Store at www.gateway.com. Use the documentation that comes with your Ethernet cards for instructions on installing the card and any required drivers.
In addition to a router, you need a straight-through cable for each computer you want to connect to the network. Cable/DSL modem Router WAN port To set up a network using a router: Plug one end of the power adapter into the AC connector on the router and the other end into a grounded, 110V electrical outlet.
• Internet security features like a firewall to keep intruders out of your network. • Wireless security features like SecureEasySetup™ or 128-bit WEP encryption. If you are not sure what to buy, check out Gateway’s accessory store at www.gateway.com. For a wireless Ethernet network you need: •...
Click Device Manager from the task list on the left. The Device Manager window opens. Click the plus (+) in front of Network adapters. The wireless Ethernet device installed in your computer is listed. If one is not listed, you must install one.
CHAPTER 9: Networking Your Computer Configuring the TCP/IP protocol A networking protocol is a language computers use to talk to each other. One of several available protocols must be set up on each computer you plan to use on your network. We recommend you use the Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol (TCP/IP), which is widely accepted and compatible for local area networks (LANs), as well as for Internet communications.
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Click Network and Sharing Center. The Network and Sharing Center window opens. Click Connect to a network on the left of the window. The Connect to a network dialog box opens. Click a network, then click Connect. If you can see the network name, but you cannot connect to it, your network is using security.
CHAPTER 9: Networking Your Computer Wireless security For information on wireless security, refer to the documentation that came with your access point. Help For more information about wireless network security methods, click Start, then click Help and Support. Type the keyword wireless network security methods in the Search Help box, then press E NTER Testing your network...
Sharing resources With a network, you can share your Internet connection, drives, and printers. Sharing drives and printers With a network, you can share drives (for example hard drives and DVD drives) and printers among the computers connected to the network.
CHAPTER 9: Networking Your Computer Un-sharing drives and folders To un-share drives or folders: Click Start, then click Computer. Right-click the drive or folder that you want to un-share, then click Share. Click Advanced Sharing, then click Share this folder (or drive) to uncheck the box. Click Apply, then click OK.
Creating a shortcut to a network drive After a shortcut is created on a computer for a drive or folder on another computer, the contents of the drive or folder can be accessed as if the drive were attached directly to the computer.
Make sure that you use a password you can remember. The password feature is very secure, and you cannot bypass it. If you forget your password, you will have to return your computer to Gateway so we can reset it. Windows user accounts Windows lets you set up a user account for each person who uses your computer.
For more information about modifying security settings, see “Modifying security settings” on page 102. Your new Gateway computer may have the McAfee SecurityCenter installed. The McAfee SecurityCenter includes the following components: • McAfee VirusScan is an anti-virus subscription service. You can use VirusScan to protect your computer from viruses, worms, Trojan horses, and hybrid attacks.
CHAPTER 10: Protecting your computer Using McAfee SecurityCenter Scanning for and removing viruses To scan for and remove viruses: Click (Start), All Programs, McAfee, then click McAfee SecurityCenter. McAfee SecurityCenter opens. Click Scan. McAfee scans your computer for viruses and automatically removes any that it finds.
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Configuring McAfee VirusScan You can configure McAfee VirusScan to perform a virus scan at certain times and on certain drives on your computer. You can also configure the types of files that it scans for. To configure McAfee VirusScan: Click (Start), All Programs, McAfee, then click McAfee SecurityCenter.
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CHAPTER 10: Protecting your computer Click the grey Virus protection is enabled bar to expand that area, then click Advanced. Click the type of scan you want to configure, then set the options for that scan type. Click OK. Using McAfee Parental Controls You can use McAfee Parental Controls to restrict your children from accessing specific Web sites or spending too much time on the Internet.
Click Parental Controls, then click Configure in the services area. The Parental Controls Configuration screen opens. Click the grey Parental controls are disabled bar to expand that area, then click Advanced. Click the control you want to configure, then follow the instructions for modifying that control.
CHAPTER 10: Protecting your computer Modifying security settings To modify security settings: Click (Start), Control Panel, then click Security. Click Security Center. The Windows Security Center dialog box opens. Click: • Windows Update to run Windows Update or modify the Windows Update settings. •...
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Click Windows Update. Windows checks the Microsoft web site to see if any updates are available. Click: • Install Updates to download and install updates on your computer. These updates include security updates. • Install Extras to download additional Windows software for your computer.
CHAPTER 10: Protecting your computer BigFix Your computer may include BigFix. BigFix monitors your computer for problems and conflicts. It automatically gathers information about the latest bugs, security alerts, and updates from BigFix sites on the Internet. Whenever BigFix detects a problem, it alerts you by flashing the blue taskbar icon.
CHAPTER Maintaining Your Computer • Setting up a maintenance schedule • Caring for your computer • Cleaning your computer • Recovering your system • Updating Windows • Using BigFix • Managing hard drive space • Scheduling maintenance tasks • Moving from your old computer...
CHAPTER 11: Maintaining Your Computer Setting up a maintenance schedule Use the following table to set up a regular maintenance schedule. Maintenance task Weekly Monthly When needed Check for viruses Run Windows Update Manage hard drive space Clean up hard drives Scan hard drive for errors Defragment hard drive Back up files...
Cleaning your computer Keeping your computer clean and the vents free from dust helps keep your computer performing at its best. You may want to gather these items and put together a computer cleaning kit: • A soft, lint-free cloth •...
“Troubleshooting” on page 143 or at www.gateway.com. Problem-solving may also involve re-installing some or all of the computer’s software (also called recovering or restoring your system). Gateway provides everything you need to recover your system under most conditions. • To recover specific files and software, see “Recovering specific files and software”...
Recovering your system using Microsoft System Restore Microsoft System Restore periodically takes “snapshots” of your system settings and saves them as restore points. In most cases of hard-to-resolve software problems, you can return to one of these restore points to get your system running again.
CHAPTER 11: Maintaining Your Computer Recovering your system using the Windows DVD Caution Reinstalling Windows may result in the loss of any custom settings you may have made. To completely re-install Windows Insert the Windows DVD into one of your computer’s DVD-capable drives, then restart your computer.
Checking hard drive space To check hard drive space: Shortcut Start Computer right-click drive Properties Click (Start) then click Computer. The Computer window opens. Right-click the drive that you want to check for available file space, then click Properties.
CHAPTER 11: Maintaining Your Computer Deleting unnecessary files Delete unnecessary files, such as temporary files and files in the Recycle Bin, to free hard drive space. To delete unnecessary files: Shortcut Start Computer right-click drive Properties Disk Cleanup Click (Start), All Programs, Accessories, System Tools, then click Disk Cleanup. The Disk Cleanup dialog box opens.
Checking the hard drive for errors The Error-checking program examines the hard drive for physical flaws and file and folder problems. This program corrects file and folder problems and marks flawed areas on the hard drive so Windows does not use them.
Use a backup device, such as a recordable disc drive, to do a complete hard drive backup. If you do not have a high-capacity backup device and you want to purchase one, you can visit the Accessories Store at www.gateway.com.
To back up files: Click (Start) then click Computer. The Computer window opens. Right-click the drive that you want to back up, click Properties, then click the Tools tab. Click Backup Now, then click Run a file backup now.
CHAPTER 11: Maintaining Your Computer Moving from your old computer Transferring files and settings with Windows Easy Transfer You can move your files, folders, software settings, and user account settings (such as display, Internet, and e-mail settings) from your old computer to your new one using Windows Easy Transfer, providing your old computer uses Windows XP or Windows Vista.
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Finding other files Use Windows Find or Search to locate other personal data files. For more information, see “Searching for files” on page You can often identify different data file types by looking at the file’s extension (the part of the file name following the last period).
CHAPTER Adding and Replacing Components • Preventing static electricity discharge • Opening the case • Closing the case • Installing memory • Replacing the system battery • Replacing a CD, DVD, or Diskette Drive, or a Memory Card Reader • Adding or replacing a hard drive •...
CHAPTER 13: Adding and Replacing Components Preventing static electricity discharge Warning To avoid exposure to dangerous electrical voltages and moving parts, turn off your computer and unplug the power cord and modem and network cables before opening the case. The components inside your computer are extremely sensitive to static electricity, also known as electrostatic discharge (ESD).
Opening the case Warning To avoid exposure to dangerous electrical voltages and moving parts, turn off your computer and unplug the power cord and modem and network cables before opening the case. Your computer case provides easy access to internal components.
CHAPTER 13: Adding and Replacing Components Removing the front bezel To remove the front bezel: After removing the side panel, press the three black plastic tabs (positions indicated by the arrows) to release the right side of the bezel. Swing the right side of the bezel out until the left side of the bezel comes away from the left side of the computer, then remove the bezel.
Closing the case Replacing the front bezel To replace the front bezel: Insert the tabs on the left side of the bezel into the slots in the left side of the computer. Swing the right side of the bezel in to insert the tabs on the right side of the bezel into the slots on the right side of the computer.
CHAPTER 13: Adding and Replacing Components Installing memory When you upgrade the computer memory, make sure that you install the correct type of memory module for your computer. Your computer uses DIMM memory. To install or replace DIMM memory: Remove the side panel by following the instructions in “Removing the side panel”...
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Turn on your computer. Windows starts and the Windows desktop appears. Click (Start), Control Panel, then click System and Maintenance. Click System. The amount of memory in your computer is shown at the bottom of the System Properties dialog box in the General tab.
CHAPTER 13: Adding and Replacing Components Replacing the system battery Warning Danger of explosion if battery is incorrectly replaced. Replace only with the same or equivalent type recommended by the manufacturer. Dispose of used batteries following the manufacturer’s instructions. If the computer clock does not keep time or the settings in the BIOS Setup utility are not saved when you turn off your computer, replace the system battery.
Replacing a CD, DVD, or Diskette Drive, or a Memory Card Reader You need a Phillips screwdriver to add or replace a CD, DVD, or diskette drive, or a memory card reader. To replace a CD, DVD, or diskette drive, or a memory card reader: Remove the side panel by following the instructions in “Removing the side panel”...
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CHAPTER 13: Adding and Replacing Components Reconnect the drive cables using your notes from Step Replace the front bezel by following the instructions in “Replacing the front bezel” on page 123. Replace the side panel by following the instructions in “Replacing the side panel”...
Adding or replacing a hard drive You need a Phillips screwdriver to add or replace a hard drive. To add or replace a hard drive: Back up files any files you want to save from the hard drive being replaced.
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CHAPTER 13: Adding and Replacing Components Remove the hard drive. Note any jumper settings on the old drive and set the jumper on the new drive to be the same. Jumper Slide the new drive into the drive bay, then slide the drive release latch back. If you are adding a drive, connect the drive cables to the new drive.
Replacing the front fan You need a Phillips screwdriver to replace the front fan. To replace the front fan: Remove the side panel by following the instructions in “Removing the side panel” on page 121. Remove the fan by pulling it away from the system board.
CHAPTER 13: Adding and Replacing Components Replacing the rear fan You need a Phillips screwdriver to replace the rear fan. To replace the rear fan: Remove the side panel by following the instructions in “Removing the side panel” on page 121.
Replacing the power supply You need a Phillips screwdriver to replace the power supply. To replace the power supply: Remove the side panel by following the instructions in “Removing the side panel” on page 121. For more stability, place your computer on its side. To avoid scratching the case, place it on a towel or other non-abrasive surface.
CHAPTER 13: Adding and Replacing Components Replacing the heat sink and processor You need a Phillips screwdriver to replace the heatsink. To replace the heat sink and processor: Remove the side panel by following the instructions in “Removing the side panel” on page 121.
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Loosen the four screws that secure the heat sink to the system board, then remove the heat sink. Screws Screws Release the processor by pushing down on the lever and then lifting it completely up. Remove the processor from the system board.
CHAPTER 13: Adding and Replacing Components Replacing the I/O board Important The color and shape of your replacement component's front cover may vary from your original component. To replace the front I/O panel: Remove the side panel by following the instructions in “Removing the side panel”...
Adding or replacing an expansion card To add or replace an expansion card: Remove the side panel by following the instructions in “Removing the side panel” on page 121. For more stability, place your computer on its side. To avoid scratching the case, place it on a towel or other non-abrasive surface.
CHAPTER 13: Adding and Replacing Components Replacing the system board To replace the system board: Remove the side panel by following the instructions in “Removing the side panel” on page 121. For more stability, place your computer on its side. To avoid scratching the case, place it on a towel or other non-abrasive surface.
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Disconnect the fan cable from the system board. Find the memory module banks on your system board. Gently pull the plastic tabs away from the sides of the memory modules, then remove them. Disconnect the power and data cables from the system board, noting their locations and orientation.
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CHAPTER 13: Adding and Replacing Components Remove the seven system board screws. Screws Screws Lift the system board up and out of the case. Align the new system board on the screw holes in the case, then secure it into the case with the screws.
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Connect the power and data cables using your notes from Step Place the heat sink over the processor, then tighten the screws that secure it to the system board. Connect the new fan cable to the system board, then insert the new fan into place.
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CHAPTER 13: Adding and Replacing Components...
• If an error message appears on the screen, write down the exact message. The message may help Gateway Customer Care in diagnosing and fixing the problem. • If you added or removed peripheral devices, review the installation procedures you performed and make sure that you followed each instruction.
CD or DVD drives The computer does not recognize a disc or the CD or DVD drive • Make sure that the disc label is facing up, then try again. • Try a different disc. Occasionally discs are flawed or become scratched and cannot be read by the CD or DVD drive.
CHAPTER 13: Troubleshooting Diskette drive The diskette drive is not recognized • Shut down and restart your computer. You cannot save a file to diskette or you see the message “disk is full or write-protected” • Make sure that the write-protection tab on the upper-right corner of the diskette is down (unprotected).
Ethernet You cannot see the other computers on your network • Make sure that your Ethernet cable is plugged into the Ethernet jack on your computer. Make sure that the other end is plugged into a router. • Make sure that all computers are plugged into a powered electrical outlet and turned on.
CHAPTER 13: Troubleshooting Hard drive You see an “Insufficient disk space” error message • Delete unnecessary files from the hard drive using Disk Cleanup. For instructions on deleting unnecessary files, see “Deleting unnecessary files” on page 112. Help For more information about file management, click Start, then click Help and Support.
If the keyboard does not work after it dries, you may need to replace it. Media Center To view Media Center troubleshooting information that is not covered in this section, go to the Gateway support Web Site at www.gateway.com. Help For more information about Windows Media Center, click Start, then click Help and Support.
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Center computer, the computer uses a screen resolution of 1024 × 768 for computer monitors and 800 × 600 for the Gateway 42-inch Plasma TV. Many TVs cannot display this high of a resolution and may shift, scramble, or scroll the picture. For a better picture on a TV display, you may need to lower the Media Center screen resolution to 800 ×...
You want to change display settings to get better TV or DVD image quality • Adjust the display device brightness, contrast, hue, and saturation. For more information, see the Gateway support Web site at: www.gateway.com. You want to know whether you can burn programs that were recorded with your Media Center computer to a DVD •...
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CHAPTER 13: Troubleshooting Your modem does not dial or does not connect • Make sure that the modem cable is plugged into the modem jack and not the Ethernet network jack. See your hardware reference or setup poster to make sure that the connections have been made correctly.
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Your 56K modem does not connect at 56K Current FCC regulations restrict actual data transfer rates over public telephone lines to 53K. Other factors, such as line noise, telephone service provider equipment, or ISP limitations, may lower the speed even further.
CHAPTER 13: Troubleshooting Monitor The screen resolution is not correct • Change the screen resolution from the Display Settings dialog box. For more information, “Changing color depth and screen resolution” on page The computer is running but there is no picture •...
The mouse works erratically • If the mouse pointer begins moving erratically across the computer display or becomes difficult to control precisely, cleaning the mouse will likely improve its accuracy. • Clean the mouse by wiping the bottom with a clean, damp cloth. Make sure that the optical sensor is clean and free of debris.
CHAPTER 13: Troubleshooting Right-click the printer you want to be the default printer, then click Set as Default Printer. • Reinstall the printer driver. See the guide that came with your printer for instructions on installing the printer driver. You see a “Printer queue is full” error message •...
Make sure that your computer is nearby at the time of your call. The technician may have you follow troubleshooting steps. Telephone numbers Gateway offers a wide range of customer service, Customer Care, and information services. Automated troubleshooting system Service description...
888-387-7752 (Canada) non-technical issues. warranty Self-help If you have how-to questions about using your Gateway-supplied hardware or software, see the following resources: • The printed or online documentation that came with your hardware or software. In many cases, additional product information and online documentation for Gateway-supplied hardware can be found in our Web site's Documentation Library.
APPENDIX Legal Notices • Important safety information • Regulatory compliance statements • Environmental information • Notices...
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Gateway system. Your Gateway system is designed and tested to meet the latest standards for safety of information technology equipment. However, to ensure safe use of this product, it is important that the safety instructions marked on the product and in the documentation are followed.
Phone: 800-846-2000 Caution Changes or modifications not expressly approved by Gateway could void the FCC compliance and negate your authority to operate the product. This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation of this device is subject to the following two conditions: (1)this device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.
Lightning protection For added protection of any Gateway product during a lightning storm or when it is left unattended or unused for long periods of time, unplug the product from the wall outlet and disconnect the antenna or cable system.
When your electrical or electronic equipment is no longer useful to you, “take it back” to your local or regional waste collection administration for recycling. ■ In some cases, your “end of life” product may be “traded in” for credit towards the purchase of new Gateway equipment. Call Gateway to see if this program is available in your area. ■...
Gateway may improve and/or change products described in this publication at any time. Due to continuing system improvements, Gateway is not responsible for inaccurate information which may appear in this manual. For the latest product updates, consult the Gateway Web site at www.gateway.com. In no event will Gateway be liable for direct, indirect, special, exemplary, incidental, or consequential damages resulting from any defect or omission in this manual, even if advised of the possibility of such damages.
Index removing cleaning replacing audio CD AC power connector case BigFix accessing broadband connection shared drives computer screen connecting shared files broadband Internet connection shared folders keyboard accessories LCD panel browser safety precautions mouse accounts notebook exterior browsing for files and folders...
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Zip drive properties troubleshooting copying using screen saver files across network files and folders documentation editing text and graphics Gateway Web site music track information help creating editing buttons Help and Support desktop icons electrostatic discharge (ESD) online help desktop shortcuts...
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Gateway sending downloading files Web address sending a Fax requirements to access Web site sending from program troubleshooting Gigabit Ethernet sending scanned image using setting up cover page Internet service provider (ISP)
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Contents MIDI file minimize button music library maintenance building modem backing up files cable music tracks checking for drive errors connecting copying checking hard drive space dial-up muting sound cleaning jack cleaning computer display troubleshooting name cleaning computer screen monitor computer adding external workgroup...
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CD locating for files and folders Windows Media Player file recording in Help and Support Plug and Play devices audio file IEEE 1394 support for CD tracks serial port USB support for recovering files and folders...
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Windows Media Player training device drivers building music library McAfee SecurityCenter creating music files classroom Windows creating WMA files Gateway Learning Libraries editing tack information playing audio CD USB port Learn With Gateway playing audio file user accounts transferring viewing video file...
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WMA file creating editing track information playing Wordpad workgroup naming working safely World Wide Web (WWW) downloading files Zip drive...
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